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Consumer Equity Partners is a venture capital firm founded to invest in innovative companies transforming the retail landscape. Established in Seattle, WA, the firm focuses on leveraging deep industry expertise and strategic partnerships to support entrepreneurs. The firm has a fund size of $300 million and currently manages a portfolio of six companies.
Consumer Equity Partners emphasizes the importance of technology, data analytics, and sustainable practices in enhancing growth and operational efficiency within the retail sector. The firm is actively involved in the Essential Commerce space, which encompasses various aspects of retail innovation. Notable milestones include successful exits such as Bevy Up and Notiva, showcasing the firm's ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups.
Consumer Equity Partners invests in companies that utilize technology and data analytics to improve the retail experience and operational efficiency. The firm emphasizes sustainability and new business models as critical components of its investment strategy. Their investment thesis identifies six key areas ripe for disruption: shopping experiences, store operations, supply chains, retail media, foodservice, and health-focused services.
Investment stages are not explicitly defined, but the firm likely targets early to growth-stage companies. Check sizes are not disclosed, but the firm’s focus on Essential Commerce indicates a preference for startups that align with their vision of transforming the retail sector through technology and sustainable practices.
Consumer Equity Partners has a diverse portfolio of six companies, each contributing to the retail-tech landscape:
Tom Furphy - General Partner. Tom has a background as the former VP of Consumables and AmazonFresh at Amazon. He founded Notiva, a SaaS platform that achieved significant scale, processing over $100 million per day in transactions before its exit to Oracle. Tom also serves on the board of Regency Centers Corporation and is a speaker at industry events such as the NGA Show.
Patrick Walsh - General Partner. Patrick brings extensive experience in venture capital, having worked for 18 years at Intel Capital and National Grid Partners. His expertise lies in identifying and supporting innovative companies within the retail sector.
To pitch Consumer Equity Partners, startups should use the contact form available on their website at consumerequitypartners.com. It is important to include a detailed deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and alignment with the firm's investment thesis. While specific response time expectations are not disclosed, founders should anticipate a thorough review process.
Warm introductions are preferred, as they can enhance the likelihood of engagement. Startups should ensure that their pitch highlights innovative aspects of their business and how they leverage technology and sustainability in retail.
On April 9, 2026, Consumer Equity Partners was featured in an article by Grocery Dive discussing their focus on retail innovation and the launch of their Industry Innovation Fund. The firm aims to raise between $200 million and $500 million, with a significant portion expected to come from retail partners.
In recent months, Consumer Equity Partners has made headlines with notable exits, including Bevy Up's acquisition by Nordstrom and Notiva's exit to Oracle, highlighting their successful investment strategy in the retail-tech space.
What are the investment criteria for Consumer Equity Partners?
The firm focuses on companies that leverage technology and data analytics to enhance the retail experience. They prioritize sustainability and innovative business models that align with their investment thesis in Essential Commerce.
How can startups apply or pitch to Consumer Equity Partners?
Startups can pitch through the firm's website at consumerequitypartners.com. It is advisable to include a clear articulation of the business model, market opportunity, and how the startup aligns with the firm's focus areas.
What makes Consumer Equity Partners different from other venture capital firms?
The firm combines deep industry expertise with a focus on technology and sustainability in retail. Their specific emphasis on Essential Commerce and the identified areas for disruption sets them apart in the venture capital landscape.
What is the geographic scope of Consumer Equity Partners?
Consumer Equity Partners primarily invests in companies based in the United States, focusing on the retail sector.
What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?
The firm has a fund size of $300 million, but specific check sizes are not disclosed. They likely invest in early to growth-stage companies.
What type of post-investment involvement does Consumer Equity Partners have?
The firm adds value through its extensive industry expertise and strategic partnerships, helping portfolio companies enhance growth and operational efficiency.
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